Smith, James Edward.

Shaw, George. Zoology of New Holland... Vol. I [all published]. London: J. Davis, [1793]-1794, first edition, half title, 12 hand-coloured engraved plates



2 works bound in one volume, 4to (285 x 215mm.), contemporary tree calf, covers with foliate borders gilt, spine gilt with red morocco lettering-piece, occasional light spotting or paper toning, joints cracking, upper cover almost loose

John, 1st Earl of Stradbroke (1750-1827), engraved armorial bookplate

Botany: BM(NH) 4:1946; Ferguson 1:170; Henrey 3:1356; Nissen BBI 1861; Stafleu TL2 12.229; Zoology: BM(NH) 8:1183 (imperfect); Ferguson 1:196; Fine Bird Books, p.142; Nissen ZBI 3838; Wood, p.566

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The first books published devoted solely to Australian zoology and botany, rarely found complete.

Smith and Shaw's works were originally intended to be combined, and issued in parts. However, after the issue of the first two parts, which contained both botanical and zoological plates, the works were issued separately. Consequently, the Zoology and Botany each rank separately as scarce and beautiful Australian colour-plate books, with publication beginning within five years of the first European settlements.

The works are of considerable rarity, especially the Zoology, and are seldom bound together in a contemporary binding, as here. We have traced only two other copies to contain both works at auction.

In 1784 James Edward Smith (1759-1828) acquired all of Linnaeus's books, manuscripts and specimens after his friend Sir Joseph Banks had declined to purchase them. Four years later he went on to found the Linnean Society. In 1797 Smith published The Natural History of the Rarer Lepidopterous Insects of Georgia, the earliest book on American insects. The book was illustrated by John Abbot, examples of whose work can be seen in lot 26.